Podolski proud of German century

Lukas Podolski has spoken of his pride in making his 100th international appearance for Germany at Euro 2012 against Denmark on Sunday.

The forward will bring up the milestone having made his senior debut in 2004, and is expected to hit three digits versus the Danes – a feat he has understandably revelled in prior to kick off in Lviv.

“I am proud, that is my initial feeling,” Podolski told Welt.

“There is also great joy. It is simply unbelievable that I am soon going to play my 100th national team game.

“I have never in my wildest dreams imagined to play so often for Germany.

“When I made my debut in 2004 I thought to myself, ‘cool now I am part of the team’, but I never looked too much into it.

“Then came the second cap and I thought ‘okay I’m here again’. I always waited around for Rudi Voller to call me.

“And then I just started getting more and more call-ups. Then came game 25, 50, 75 and now 100.

“My goal was never to break Lothar Matthaus record of 150 caps. I always said it would be a dream to reach 100 caps.

“We will so how long I can play still. If I feel well I can play a few more years.”

Germany will qualify for the quarter-finals at Euro 2012 if they record at least a draw against Denmark.